The Low Anthem: WXPN's December 2008 Artist to Watch

From hipsters to housewives, there is something universally appealing in The Low Anthem's traditional yet innovative style. The Rhode Island-based group's organic, sincere and markedly pleasant tunes have landed them as the quintessential Americana group of the year. {readmorelink}Read More...{/readmorelink}

Their sound is highly distinguishable, with husky vocals and poetically crafted lyrics supported by a foundation of rich harmonies, heavy blues guitar, swinging upright bass, pounding drums and a sweet swaying clarinet. Citing Tom Waits, Neil Young, and Bob Dylan as their main influences, The Low Anthem produce their folksy, layered sound with a tenacity for the natural - they have been known to forego PA systems and amplification in order to blend with their surroundings.

"If there's a new definition of Americana, The Low Anthem has created it"
(Bruce Warren, XPN)

Since the release of The Low Anthem's first self-titled album, they have undergone a lot of positive changes, incorporating a growing dose of raw minimalist rock sound. The new edge has been a great feature on their third and most recent record, Oh My god, Charlie Darwin. The critically acclaimed album, recorded with a DIY approach to writing and recording, demonstrates incredible breadth within a folksy Americana frame. After its release in early September, the group embarked on a 30-city-tour, showcasing a range of calm introspective tracks to festive foot-stomping tunes.